BOSTON — There was a celebration of 100 years at the statehouse Monday, but it wasn't for the building or the city, it was for some of Boston's oldest residents.
Fifteen centenarians were celebrated at an afternoon tea under the gold dome Monday by Central Boston Elder Services.
The members, 21 were invited in total, came from diverse backgrounds and live in a range of Boston’s neighborhoods. Inductees included Dorchester’s Maria Barros who came to America from Cape Verde at age 16. She now has five children, 32 grandchildren and 54 great-grandchildren.
Khava Kantor, who lives in the Fenway, was evacuated from Romania with her husband and young child during World War II. She made her way to Boston surviving the war and holocaust that claimed the lives of her friends and family.
“Central Boston Elder Services celebrates our older residents and recognizes the enormous value of their life experiences,” said Michael Vance, Central Boston Elder Services CEO. “We are so proud of them and treasure their ability to share the insights and occurrences of their many years, to describe how times have changed, and to share their often unique cultural experiences.”
CBES founded the Centenarian Society of Boston in 2011 to recognize the longevity and courageous spirit of those who "age in place" in the communities CBES serves.
Cox Media Group
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/7QOJU3BNCJERBNKJC5LWTBYFLU.png)
